Our Founders Executive Executive Director Director & A Message from
Dear Friends, Supporters, and Community,
Every partnership between a person and a service dog begins with a simple truth: together, we are stronger than we are alone.
In 2020, when Sunrise Service Dogs was just a vision, we dreamed of creating a world where exceptional canines could bridge the gap between disability and possibility. Today, as we reflect on the past year, we are humbled and inspired by the life-changing partnerships we’ve helped create. What began as a dream has blossomed into a movement that has transformed lives, one team at a time.
This past year has been one of remarkable growth and profound impact. We graduated six new service dog teams, each one a testament to the power of partnership These teams are now supporting individuals living with PTSD, autism, diabetes, mobility challenges, and rare conditions like Lamb-Schaffer Syndrome and Charcot-Marie Tooth Disease 4J Each graduation represents months of training and a new beginning a brighter path. Our Puppy Academy welcomed new additions, carefully bred and selected to ensure the highest standards of training and care. We also expanded our Bridge Academy, supporting 26 individuals, including Veterans, First Responders, and Civilians, each with their own unique challenges and triumphs.
What sets Sunrise Service Dogs apart is our unwavering commitment to seeing the whole person. We understand that disability is just one facet of a complex, valuable human life Our dogs don’t just perform tasks; they become bridges connecting people back to their communities, their families, and parts of themselves they thought were lost. We remember the veteran who, after years of sleepless nights, finally found peace with his service dog by his side
We recall the mother who wept tears of joy when her child with autism spoke to their service dog the first words she’d heard in months. And we celebrate the young woman with mobility challenges who, with her service dog’s support, ventured confidently into the world for the first time in years. These moments aren’t just successes; they’re reminders of why we built this organization in the first place.
As we move forward, we remain committed to excellence in breeding and training, while honoring the unique qualities of each individual we serve Our dogs come from exceptional bloodlines Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Old English Sheepdogs because we believe that creating life-changing partnerships begins with outstanding canines
The pages that follow tell our story in numbers and images, but the true measure of our impact lives in the everyday moments that don’t make it into reports: A veteran who can sleep through the night. A person with mobility challenges who ventures confidently into the world with their service dog by their side
Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’ve donated, volunteered, sponsored, or simply shared our story, you’ve helped create a bridge of possibility for someone who needed it. Together, we’re building a world where disability doesn’t define limitations where exceptional dogs and remarkable humans find their way to each other, creating partnerships that transform lives
With gratitude and hope,
Colton & Heather Johnson Founders
Executive Director
ABOUT US
Sunrise Service Dogs was founded in 2020 with a clear mission to create a bridge of possibility by partnering individuals with exceptional canines. What started as an idea became a reality in 2022 when entire operations began, establishing a unique approach to training and placing service dogs
In a short time, we have grown into a trusted organization, developing specialized programs that address various needs. The impact has been significant, with service dog partnerships transforming lives and strengthening communities. Our rapid progress reflects both the increasing demand for these services and the effectiveness of our approach.
Programs & Services
Puppy Academy
Our comprehensive breeding and early training program develops purposebred puppies from exceptional bloodlines, preparing them for specialized service dog work through sciencebased training methods and early socialization.
Bridge Academy
Our owner-trained program supports individuals who already have dogs with service potential, providing expert guidance, training protocols, and certification assistance to transform beloved pets into qualified service animals.
Placement Services
We carefully match the unique strength of trained service dogs with individual's specific needs, lifestyle factors, and personality compatibility, ensuring happiness and partnerships that thrive for years to come.
1 Pyschiatric Support
3 Mobility Support
6 Service Dog Teams Graduated From SSD
1 Medical Support
1 Veteran Support
1
4
8 in Bridge Academy
1
6
1
5
2
7puppies were bred and whelped in-house by SSD
o u t o f t h e s e
5 entered our program. 1 was retained by the Dam's owner, and 1 was retained by the Stud's owner.
CLIENT STORIES
Behind every service dog partnership lies a story of transformation that statistics alone cannot describe In the following accounts, our clients share how their service dogs have become bridges to independence, confidence, and renewed possibility. These firsthand testimonials reveal not just what our dogs do, but how these exceptional partnerships have fundamentally changed lives, creating impacts that go far beyond the tasks performed and into the everyday moments that define quality of life
DEBBIE & HOSS
Having my dog by my side has renewed my social life. I can now attend family gatherings, meet friends for coffee, and run errands without the anxiety that used to hold me back. I’m a veteran with PTSD and his calm presence helps me stay grounded, and his assistance with physical tasks means I can focus on enjoying the moment rather than worrying about getting through it.
JUSTIN & PERRY
Since partnering with Perry, I've seen incredible growth - both in his skills and my independence He's mastered everything from helping with personal care tasks to making shopping trips manageable. What's truly remarkable is how he's helped me maintain my social connections even during health flares Thanks to him, I’m able to work, and I haven't had to miss important family events or friend gatherings
AMILYNNE & BEAU
With Beau by my side, I've rediscovered the world beyond my home. From attending my husband’s reunion to visiting grocery stores, movie theaters, and even experiencing Hamilton live, Beau has made these outings not just possible but enjoyable. His calm, steady presence in crowded spaces and his ability to navigate everything for me has eliminated barriers I once thought insurmountable. The confidence I feel with him beside me has allowed me to reconnect with friends, engage in social activities, and experience life's simple pleasures again—all while knowing I have his unwavering support should I need it.
LAURYN & NAVIA
Before Navia, my service dog, living with POTS meant each outing was a gamble She alerts me before cardiac episodes and stays with me during events, giving me precious time to take preventive measures. Thanks to her constant monitoring, I've regained my independence Having Navia by my side means I can focus on living my life instead of worrying about my next cardiac event. She's my guardian angel who's given me my life back
MICHEL & SANTIAGO
My dog has transformed my daily life in ways I never expected From helping me with practical tasks like retrieving dropped items and opening doors, to giving me the confidence to explore new places, and going to the VA, he's become an essential part of my independence.
VOLUNTEERS
The Heart of Sunrise Service Dogs
Volunteers are the backbone of Sunrise Service Dogs Their incredible commitment has been instrumental in helping us fulfill our mission of creating meaningful partnerships between individuals and exceptional dogs.
12
Active Volunteers
4,800+ Volunteer Hours In Operational Support 65%
V o l u n t e e r S p o t l i g h t S p o t l i g h t
Raising a litter of future service dog puppies has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life
Watching these puppies grow from their first breaths to becoming confident, well-socialized puppies ready for their training journey has filled my heart with purpose Each midnight feeding, every cleanup, all the careful socialization – it's all worth it knowing these puppies will go on to change someone's life Being part of this program's mission from the very beginning stages is an honor I'll always cherish.
Susie L - Whelping Home Volunteer
After more than 35 years in dog breeding and conformation, donating puppies to this program has given my work new meaning I carefully select puppies with the perfect temperament and health clearances to become service dogs Seeing my dogs go on to transform lives is more meaningful than any show ring ribbon. The program's dedication to excellence in breeding and training aligns perfectly with my values, and I'm proud to contribute my lines and expertise to help create these extraordinary service dog teams.
Join Our Volunteer Family
The growing demand for our programs and services means we are always looking for passionate individuals to join our volunteer team. Whether you can offer a few hours a month or a more significant commitment, you have a place at Sunrise Service Dogs
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit sunriseservicedogs.org/volunteer
Shannon Gage, Lowood Labrador Retrievers - Puppy Donor
Christophe & Rebecca G - Puppy Raisers
this amazing journey
SUPPORT IN 2024! Thank you FOR YOUR
$25,000 - $50,000
The Andras Foundation
Under the Sun Dog Training & Daycare
Heather & Colton Johnson
$5,000 - $15,000
Karen Benenati, Equity Colorado Real Estate
Lowood Labrador Retrievers
Brian & Kay Frevert
Harewood Kennels
REACOS
The Furnace Guy Heating & Cooling
$2,500 - $4,999
Jeri Berg
Douglas & Michaelanne Johnson
Long's Peak German Shepherds
Brooks Labrador Retrievers
Patty Korsch
Phil Long Ford Motor City
Amy Harnden
$1,000 - $2,499
Purina
Debbie Urioste
Laurie & Wayne Smith
Shelia Smith
Katy B Van Housen
Tom & AmiLynne Carroll
David Frei
Melissa Emmett
Customers of Under the Sun Dog Training & Daycare
The Canine Chronicle
Clint & Karen Livingston
James & Sheyna Marshall
The Forest Event Rentals
Sue Coston
Chuck Bessant
Lisa & Patrick Nofield
Tyler Crady-Roche, All Breed Photo
Clark & Tricia Elmer
Magnum Shooting Center
Juniper Hill Golden Retrievers
Pebwin Golden Retrievers
Laura & Robert Edwards
Fox21 KXRM
Sharon Hanson
Zach & Zoe Watkins
Tom & Leah Huxtable
Kailey Manske
Jenna McMullen
Diane & Kent Sutherland
Lucille Dorsett
Waypoint Bank
$500 - $999
Monica Bullock & Crys
Lucero
Carl & Donna Hatton
David McKinley
Michel Arias
Elissa Boyet
Denver's Competitive Ink
Bell Brothers Brewing
Dayna Breault
Eric & Joan Liebes
J&J Dog Supplies
Mandie Hoehne
Definitive Dog
El Paso County 4-H Dog Advisory Committee
Mark & Sharon Sperry
Pet Pantry
Sanford Woodard
North Springs Veterinary Referral Center
95.1 Cat Country
Willow Creek Portraits
By Becoming a Supporter,
Train and place service dogs for individuals with disabilities.
Provide ongoing and lifetime support to our clients and their service dog teams.
Expand our service dog placement initiatives to meet the rising demand in our community.
Raise awareness about the transformative power of service dogs.
Want to support the work we do to impact more?
2024 FINANCIAL REVIEW
Board of Directors & Leadership
Heather Johnson Co-Founder, Board Member
Brian Frevert Vice-Chair
Colton Johnson Founder
Douglas Johnson Board Member
Tricia Elmer Board Member
Russell A. White CPA, MBA - Treasurer
Diana Wilson Secretary
Laura Edwards Executive Director
